Despite the brevity of John F. Kennedy's presidency, its significance endures. From the Cuban Missile Crisis and the creation of the Berlin Wall to the Peace Corps and the civil rights movement, Kennedy's presidency was one of crisis and change. In Debating the Kennedy Presidency, noted scholars James N. Giglio and Stephen G. Rabe examine the successes and failures of Kennedy's foreign and domestic policies. Rabe focuses on the administration's foreign relations and argues that JFK was a relentless Cold Warrior who perpetuated the Cold War more than he resolved it. Conversely, Giglio sympathetically surveys domestic policies and defends Kennedy's record by emphasizing the constraints under which the president had to operate. The differing viewpoints of the two authors, as well as the supplementary documents, provide an ideal introduction allowing readers to examine the issues and draw their own conclusions about America's 35th president.

James N. Giglio is Distinguished Professor of History at Southwest Missouri State University. Stephen G. Rabe is professor of history at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Review:

Clear, concise, and pointed, these perspectives on the Kennedy presidency by two fine historians will invite discussion and engage student interest. The documents are well chosen and illuminating. This book will work in a variety of history classes. (Mark T. Gilderhus, Lyndon B. Johnson Chair, Texas Christian University)

James N. Giglio and Stephen Rabe, both eminent scholars who have studied Kennedy's administration extensively, have examined two different aspects of the administration and have come up with two very different evaluations. The result adds an interesting new dimension to the debate over the Kennedy presidency and will stir controversy and discussion among students. (Burton I. Kaufman, Miami University)

James N. Giglio and Stephen Rabe have succeeded in finally presenting a balanced elucidation of the strengths and weaknesses of the attenuated administration of John F. Kennedy. Their insightful essays and selective documents demonstrate how far short JFK fell in achieving his most lauded goals and yet how he more than rose to the occasion on certain crucial foreign and domestic policy issues. Their interpretative essays stand in marked contrast to traditional scholarship about this tragic and over-sentimentalized presidency. (Joan Hoff, Montana State University, Bozeman)

The book includes selected speeches and documents that illuminate Kennedy's eloquence and humor. (Karl Helicher Library Journal)

Love him or hate him, John F. Kennedy remains one of the most enigmatic, compelling, and debated American presidents. Stephen Rabe and James Giglio wage war for the hearts and minds of scholars, students, and the public in this powerful new book. Their insightful arguments speak to the profound issues of the sixties, as well as to today. (Elizabeth Cobbs Hoffman, San Diego State University)